Academic Programmes

Dbels offers three integrated academic verticals, each designed to serve specific developmental stages while maintaining continuity in our core values of experiential learning and entrepreneurial thinking. Students progress seamlessly from early years through to pre-university education on a single campus.

Finnish Elementary School (FES)

Kindergarten to Preparatory II

The Finnish Elementary School brings Finland's globally acclaimed early years methodology to Chandigarh Tricity. In these foundational years, children develop through play-based learning, sensory exploration, and guided discovery rather than formal instruction and assessment.

Philosophy

Finland consistently ranks among the world's best education systems because it recognises that young children learn differently from older students. In FES, there are no formal examinations before age seven. Instead, learning happens through purposeful play, outdoor exploration, and activities that nurture natural curiosity.

Key Features

• Play-Based Pedagogy: Structured play activities develop cognitive, social, and motor skills in ways that feel natural and engaging to young children.
• Language Development: Multilingual exposure including English and Hindi builds strong communication foundations from the earliest years.
• Low Student-Teacher Ratio: Small class sizes ensure every child receives personalised attention and support.
• Holistic Assessment: Developmental progress is tracked through observation and portfolio documentation rather than tests and grades.
• Nature-Based Learning: Regular outdoor activities and environmental engagement connect children with the natural world.

Learning Outcomes

Children completing FES develop strong foundational literacy and numeracy, social confidence, emotional regulation, creative expression, and a genuine love for learning that carries forward into formal schooling.

Young Entrepreneurs School (YES)

Grades I to VIII

The Young Entrepreneurs School follows the Cambridge International curriculum while integrating entrepreneurship education from Grade 1 onwards. This combination creates academically rigorous learners who also develop practical skills in problem-solving, innovation, and creating value.

Cambridge International Curriculum

Cambridge International is trusted by over 10,000 schools across 160 countries. It provides a structured, research-based approach to learning while developing critical thinking and international perspective.

• Global Recognition: Cambridge qualifications are accepted by universities worldwide, including institutions in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada, and India's premier institutions.
• Checkpoint Assessments: Optional external examinations in Grades 5 and 8 provide international benchmarking and may offer advantages such as IELTS exemptions when applying to universities abroad.
• Global Perspectives: Cambridge offers Global Perspectives, a subject specifically designed to develop critical thinking and understanding of interconnected world issues.
• Continuous Evaluation: Assessment includes activities, research papers, viva, and formative assessments throughout the year, complemented by formal year-end examinations.

Entrepreneurship Integration

What distinguishes YES is the systematic integration of entrepreneurial thinking across all subjects and grade levels.

• Y-Hub Activities: Students engage with real-world challenges through the Y-Hub Entrepreneurship Development Centre. This includes ideation workshops, market research projects, and age-appropriate venture creation.
• Financial Literacy: Practical understanding of money, budgeting, and economic concepts develops progressively from Grade 1.
• Problem-Based Learning: Curriculum units connect academic content to real problems, encouraging students to propose and develop solutions.
• Industry Connections: Partnerships with TiE Chandigarh and CII-IWN provide mentorship and exposure to professional entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Facilities

Students in YES benefit from specialised learning environments including the Avishkaar Robotics Lab and Makerspace, AI and IT Research Centre, dedicated science laboratories, and creative arts studios.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of YES are prepared for Cambridge IGCSE examinations, possess strong academic foundations across disciplines, demonstrate entrepreneurial thinking and practical problem-solving abilities, and have developed the confidence to pursue opportunities at leading institutions in India and abroad.

International Junior College (IJC)

Grades IX to XII

The International Junior College offers Cambridge IGCSE (Grades IX and X) and Cambridge A Levels (Grades XI and XII), providing a direct pathway to universities worldwide. This pre-university programme develops advanced academic skills alongside career readiness and global citizenship.

Cambridge IGCSE (Grades IX and X)

• International Recognition: IGCSE is the world's most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. Board examination papers are set and evaluated in the United Kingdom, ensuring globally consistent standards.
• Subject Flexibility: Students choose from a wide range of subjects, allowing them to develop strengths and pursue interests while meeting university entry requirements.
• Competitive Exam Eligibility: Completion of Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels qualifies students for all competitive examinations in India, including those for engineering, medical, and other professional courses.

Cambridge A Levels (Grades XI and XII)

• University Preparation: A Levels are the gold standard for university admission worldwide. The depth of study in chosen subjects prepares students for the rigour of undergraduate programmes.
• Specialisation: Students typically study three to four subjects in depth, developing expert-level understanding that distinguishes them in university applications.
• Research and Independent Learning: Extended projects and independent research components develop the academic skills essential for success in higher education.

Career and University Support

• CAP Centre: The Career Counselling and Global Admission Pathways Centre provides comprehensive guidance for university applications, career planning, and professional development.
• University Partnerships: Relationships with institutions including Western Sydney University create pathways for research projects, internships, and admission support.
• Industry Exposure: Internship opportunities and industry mentorship through our entrepreneurship network prepare students for professional environments.

Learning Outcomes

IJC graduates are academically prepared for admission to leading universities in India and abroad, possess strong research and analytical skills, have clarity about career directions and pathways, and demonstrate the maturity and independence required for success in higher education and professional life.